The Kneipp path is a procedure recommended for circulatory disorders in the lower extremities, headaches, migraines, problems with metabolism, and reduced immunity. This popular and uncomplicated hydrotherapy treatment has practically no serious contraindications.

The Kneipp pathlooks very inconspicuous. There are usually two basins, one of which is filled with warm (about 40-50 degrees Celsius) and the other with cold water (5-8 degrees). The temperature difference may also be smaller and amount to a maximum of approx. 18-20 degrees. In addition, the basins in the Kneipp path are often filled with small pebbles, they may also have, for example, hydromassage jets or a special system causing wave motion, which additionally stimulates the feet receptors. The treatment begins with immersing the feet in warm water for approx. 10 minutes, then entering the cold water for approx. 10 seconds. This cycle is repeated several times, with the Kneipp path always finished in cold water.

Kneipp path: healing walks in the water

The treatment called the Kneipp path comes from the name of a Bavarian priest - Sebastian Kneipp, who promoted hydrotherapy in the 19th century. He became convinced of the healing properties of water when he fell ill with tuberculosis. In those days, the disease was difficult to treat, chronic, and often fatal. Kneipp, twenty-something, for whom conventional medicine could not help much, began to read about hydrotherapy. In the end, he decided to use an innovative method for those times - he ran to the Danube river, undressed, plunged for a few seconds in the cold water (about 5 degrees), and then also ran back home. Surprisingly, he didn't catch a cold, what's more, he felt better. And he believed enough in this method of treatment that he bathed in the Danube several times a week, while both before and after the procedure, he warmed up the body through physical activity. Most likely, thanks to the baths, he strengthened the immune system, and his body had the strength to fight the disease again. At the same time, Kneipp became more and more interested in hydrotherapy, invented and tried out new methods of water treatments, including alternating bathing in warm and sometimes in cold water. It was they who gave rise to the modern Kneipp path.

Kneipp path: advantages of the treatment

What does the treatment give? It stimulates the circulatory system, strengthens blood vessels and veins, and improves blood circulation. Additionally, it speeds up the metabolism and stimulates the immune system. Thanks to its properties, the indications for its use are primarily circulation disorders in the lower extremities, including the onset of varicose disease, headaches, including migraine headaches, metabolic disorders, reduced immunity, including susceptibility to infections. Alternately dipping your legs in warm and cold water also affects your well-being. It stimulates, refreshes and adds energy. It is also a great way to relax your body and reduce the effects of stress.

Kneipp path: contraindications

Contraindications to the use of the Kneipp path are similar to those in the case of other hydrotherapy treatments. These are primarily acute inflammations, including skin or soft tissues, fever infections, advanced varicose veins, dermatological changes, e.g. ulcers, abscesses, eczema and conditions after fresh injuries (fractures, sprains).

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